UK broadband providers T-Mobile and 3 have signed a deal to allow them to use each other's telephone masts, it has been reported.

The move is aimed at bringing high-speed wireless broadband to more of the UK, with the providers set to confirm the deal today.

It is hoped that by combining the UK's fourth and fifth largest operators, the costs of producing a viable network will be significantly reduced.

The deal will cover the 3G access networks belonging to the two firms, numbering thousands of masts, the Guardian reports.

Jim Hyde, chief executive of T-Mobile, said: "3G is a transforming technology, but this will be the first time that a 3G access network in this country is able to achieve both the reach and capacity to meet the needs of the future."

News of the agreement comes amid increasing speculation that T-Mobile is seeking to acquire 3.

Ofcom is expected to conduct an examination of the agreement.